Keys Bartender Anti-maga Podcast

You are in charge of the vibe at the Bar. It is of utmost importance to be proactively keeping tabs on the conversation to see where it can turn dark, abusive, or just all around negative.

Jim's family leaves for an extended trip to Poland. Miami is no treat to navigate in a severe thunderstorm. If you don't manage to keep your bar fun you could be hurting your earnings.

The family goes to the mainland for a shopping trip.

Jim relates several stories when he consumed too much alcohol. It's a hard part of the job telling someone when they have had enough.

Vodkas have the least distinctive tastes in liquors. Why is it so many people swear by certain brands? Jim suggests a blind taste test. Summer's approach brings back memories of the vacation Mecca for this 10 year old at heart, Wildwood, NJ.

Sometimes it is a pleasure to do a job at work not in your wheelhouse. It can broaden your perspective and give you street cred with co-workers. How do you handle conflict resolution at the bar, t.v. channel, music genre, and billing? These are the rules that Jim follows.

Until we run out of it, we give very little thought to Ice. A critical supply item for all bars and parties there never seems to be enough of it. Finally, news is coming at us 24 hours a day it is easy to think things are bad. Why not ignore the doomsayers and live your best life.

A balanced drink menu can increase sales and decrease the impression that you are a tourist only Bar. Balance in life also gives you greater freedom in thought and association. Jim gets a comment from his sister that gives him pause.

Just as a casual observation it would appear that the number of people not drinking at Bars/Restuarants is growing. It used to be viewed as an aberration not so much today. With mocktails, juices, flavored sodas, zero zero beer, etc. the choices are growing for the teetotaler. Jim's wife makes an off the cuff remark about a Mexican Market nearby in the Redlands that sparks his curiosity.

A new business opening up in the Florida Keys will feature an automated bartenderless bar. Jim for one does not fear the change but sees it as a progression of technology. Who is the judge of in style or cool? Finally, Jim's sister appears to give him advice on expanding the show to a Ham Radio audience.

The restaurant where Jim is working gets set to convert to a POS (Point of Sale). People as a rule are resistant to change which clouds the view of benefits that come with positive change. If we use a journey as a metaphor for life it is easy to see those small departures from the intended path can lead to unintended destinations.

Jim explains why he always checks explicit option for podcast. Its not so he can just freestyle curse on the show. The next million-dollar idea is proposed for a service to restore your foot appearance. The lowly coaster gets a shout out as an integral accessory. Finally, don't come into Jim's bar with a plan to indoctrinate without expecting a counter theory or belief system. As said in t...

There are no drunk babies in this episode but there is talk of liability. A local parent runs into some legal issue after hosting an after prom party. A Florida Girl does something admirably notable helping the reputation for the state of Florida. Finally there are always significant events in people's lives they overshadow the rest of their story.

Buying a ticket for air travel has gotten more complicated due to the ease of purchasing and options offered. Learning how to read your audience(patrons) can aid those handling setup for parties. Jim realizes he may have been misinterpreted on a previous podcast and attempts to clarify.

When you are a bartender in a tourist location it is good business to recommend other businesses, even your competitors. It adds an air of confidence and good will to any interaction with a patron. Just be sure just to inform on option not quality of service or experience. Jim get's the "So, you're that guy comment from a Yoga Instructor".

When it comes to cocktails fresh ingredients (fresh limes, lemons, oranges etc.) are sometimes of inconsistent quality. They can affect the taste of each drink greatly. Tahitian Princess pineapple juice may not be top shelf but the vodka and pineapple you make with it will taste the same today or next month. In almost any work environment there always seem to be outsiders. Keeping a co-worker out...

The garnish can be for aesthetics or can be an essential part of the cocktail. Knowing how to garnish a cocktail is a critical skill for bartenders. Why do older guys show their jewels so much? Underwear would go a long way solving that problem. A slow night at the Bar does not need to be unproductive.

From slow opening to the frenetic happy hour/dinner hour pace to the slow closing Bars go through different atmospheres. It is difficult for this bartender to maintain that calmer attitude. Recognizing the pacing and vibe changes helps Jim to cope. Recognizing a need for new routines Jim goes to Yoga Class.

Call it ambiance, atmosphere, or vibe every Bar has one. Let's hope it's a welcoming one. There are ways to make your place one of the good ones. It difficult to have an in-depth discussion without agreeing on the facts.

Sometimes workplace inconveniences are opportunities in disguise. Not all disasters have silver linings, but some can lead innovation. If you have a penchant for being misunderstood with some words, it pays to lose them from your vocabulary. You may wind up calling someone a See You Next Tuesday.

When it comes to speed bartending knowing how to free pour is critical. That doesn't mean to forget your portion control. Here are some tips to keep you from over serving when free pouring. The snowbirds have all flown north leaving some places down here feeling like empty nest. Finally, Jim admits to having had worn a wedding gown.

Jim returns as a Spin Instructor. Bartending skills go beyond the mechanics of mixology but also includes diplomacy. We have a story that may revitalize greeting cards, balloons, and cake sales. Sharing intimate details in one's life is a sign of a desire for a closer relationship.

Owning or managing a restaurant may seem like a fun past time but it is arduous. People tend to over emphasize the upside without consideration for all the work and worry.

A huge selection can be a draw back in the service industry. Jim's trip to the beach provides a mental health respite after a busy weekend.

After Jim listens to a recent episode, he suspects that he may have Asperger's due to his repetitive utterances. He returns to work and has a lovely visit with a motorcycle club.